Major Depressive Disorder Treatment

Dr. Mark Pundt, Chief Executive Officer at Beach House Center for Recovery, brings a wealth of expertise in medical facilities and business acumen to his leadership role. After earning his MD from Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Dr. Pundt specialized in Emergency Medicine. With over 30 years of experience, he has held leadership, operational, managerial, and consulting positions while working as a clinician in medical practices and businesses.

Throughout his career, Dr. Pundt has demonstrated his exceptional leadership skills by serving as CEO, President, and/or Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of six medical companies. His extensive background in healthcare administration and his ability to lead teams dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care have made him a respected figure in the industry.

Since joining Beach House, Dr. Pundt has applied his exceptional talents and strong work ethic to every aspect of the program. He recognizes the importance of even the smallest details when it comes to delivering the best possible care for patients. Driven by a mission to create an environment where everyone who enters Beach House can find the support they need, he is dedicated to helping individuals embark on meaningful and lasting new lives in recovery.

At Beach House Center for Recovery, the belief goes beyond treating a diagnosis. They understand that they are treating individuals, each with unique needs, backgrounds, and belief systems. Dr. Pundt’s extensive experience in healthcare administration and his track record of leading teams focused on delivering the highest level of patient care have propelled Beach House to the forefront of the industry.

Under Dr. Pundt’s leadership, Beach House Center for Recovery continues to be a pioneer in the field, providing exceptional care and support to individuals struggling with addictions and co-occurring disorders. His combination of medical expertise, business acumen, and unwavering dedication ensures that Beach House remains at the forefront of innovation and compassion in the pursuit of helping individuals find lasting recovery.

As Chief Financial Officer at Beach House Center for Recovery, Nataliya Boyko brings her expertise in financial management and asset stewardship to the organization. Nataliya assumes critical responsibilities, including overseeing internal and external financial reporting, managing banking relationships, and ensuring efficient cash management.

With a Florida Licensed Certified Public Accountant designation and over a decade of experience, Nataliya’s contributions extend far beyond traditional financial management. Her diverse background encompasses various industries, including financial services and international business development. Within these fast-paced, high-growth environments, Nataliya has consistently excelled in multi-disciplinary projects, displaying a keen ability to navigate complex financial landscapes.

Nataliya’s contributions extend to managing both the billing department and utilization review, where her expertise contributes to efficient reimbursement processes and effective allocation of resources. She ensures the accurate and timely billing of services provided to patients and works closely with insurance payers to streamline reimbursement procedures. Her meticulous attention to detail and in-depth knowledge of best practices contribute to the financial stability and operational success of Beach House Center for Recovery.

In addition to her professional achievements, Nataliya finds fulfillment in her volunteer work within the equestrian community. She serves on the Board of the United States Para Equestrian Association, dedicating her free time to support and advocate for the well-being of others. Nataliya’s commitment to giving back to her community reflects her compassionate nature and aligns perfectly with Beach House’s mission of providing exceptional care and support to patients.

Nataliya Boyko’s expertise in financial management, coupled with her dedication to service, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and success of Beach House Center for Recovery. As Chief Financial Officer, she upholds the highest standards of fiscal responsibility, contributing to the overall mission of providing exceptional care and empowering individuals on their journey to recovery.

Leslie Williams, LMHC, MS, CCTP, CSTS, NCC, C-CP, QS, serves as the Chief Clinical Officer at Beach House Center for Recovery, a nationally recognized provider of behavioral health treatment. With a deep commitment to quality care and a compassionate staff, Leslie plays a vital role in ensuring innovative and comprehensive treatment for patients.

Boasting over 14 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Leslie possesses a wealth of expertise in psychotherapy, clinical management, and mental health counseling. Her educational background includes a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, equipping her with the necessary knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact. Throughout her career, Leslie has held various roles such as Clinical Director, Primary Therapist, Group Facilitator, BHT Supervisor, Case Manager, Clinical Support, and Clinical Supervisor. She is well-versed in conducting psychometric testing, providing comprehensive assessments for addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common stressors faced by individuals, families, and groups.

In her capacity as Chief Clinical Officer, Leslie assumes responsibility for overseeing the delivery of patient care and the daily operations of the program. She ensures thorough reviews of research and testing for each individual patient, enabling the treatment team to develop a well-informed conceptualization and plan of treatment. Leslie’s dedication extends to working with veterans and first responders, a cause close to her heart due to the presence of many veterans in her own family.

As a native of Florida and with 15 years of sobriety under her belt, Leslie finds inspiration in the words of Eleanor Roosevelt: “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” Drawing from this wisdom, Leslie motivates the Beach House team to approach patients with empathy and compassion, while challenging them to confront the addictive patterns of behavior and thinking that hinder long-term sobriety.

Leslie Williams’s leadership as the Chief Clinical Officer at Beach House Center for Recovery is instrumental in fostering an environment of healing and growth. With her extensive clinical knowledge, compassionate approach, and personal experience with addiction, she remains dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to lasting recovery.

Susan Jameson, Vice President of Human Resources & Administration at Beach House Center for Recovery, is a dedicated leader with expertise in both human resources and facility operations. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Administration from Stockton University and post-graduate coursework at St. Mary’s College of California, Susan is committed to continuous learning and professional growth.

In her role, Susan is responsible for driving the organization’s human resources strategy while also managing facility operations, including building facilities, kitchen, and IT departments. Her diverse range of responsibilities spans talent acquisition, leadership development, diversity and inclusion, organizational design, employee education and development, compensation and benefits, HR operations, employee relations, and facility management.

Susan understands the importance of cultivating a positive work environment that supports the needs and aspirations of Beach House Center for Recovery’s valued employees. With over 15 years of diverse human resources experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She also possesses a deep understanding of compliant practices expected by licensing boards and accreditations, making her a vital contributor to the success of Beach House Center for Recovery.

By fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment, Susan ensures that the organization attracts and retains top talent while providing ample opportunities for professional development. Her passion for optimizing the impact of human resources aligns seamlessly with the mission of Beach House Center for Recovery. Through her unwavering commitment to supporting employee well-being and growth, Susan plays a crucial role in fulfilling the organization’s vision of transforming lives and guiding individuals on the path to recovery.

Dr. Michael Slifer, MD, PhD, is a highly esteemed medical professional serving as the Medical Director at Beach House Center for Recovery. With a career spanning over 21 years, Dr. Slifer plays a pivotal role in directing and overseeing patients’ medical care within our detox and treatment programs. His expertise encompasses the administration of medication-assisted treatments and the treatment of dual diagnoses, addressing both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

As a triple Board Certified Psychiatrist in Addiction Medicine, Psychiatry and Neurology, and Geriatric Psychiatry, Dr. Slifer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. Additionally, his PhD in Genetics and academic background as a former teacher at the Miller School of Medicine at Miami University further enhance his understanding of the intricate connections between genetics, mental health, and addiction.

Dr. Slifer’s contributions to the medical field are nothing short of exceptional. He is a published author of two books and has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed journals, showcasing his dedication to advancing the understanding and treatment of addiction. Notably, Dr. Slifer’s research efforts have been recognized by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), receiving funded grants on three separate occasions, totaling over 2.5 million dollars. His commitment to evidence-based practices and his pursuit of cutting-edge research greatly benefit our Treatment Team and enhance the quality of patient care provided at Beach House.

Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, Dr. Slifer is widely regarded as a compassionate and caring individual within the industry. His genuine concern for those suffering from addiction is evident in his approach to patient care and his steadfast commitment to improving the lives of individuals on their recovery journey.

Beach House Center for Recovery is honored to have Dr. Slifer as a crucial member of our Treatment Team and leading our Medical Department. His expertise, leadership, and dedication to providing outstanding patient care ensure that our programs are at the forefront of medical advancements in addiction treatment. We are grateful for Dr. Slifer’s presence and the invaluable contributions he makes to our mission of helping individuals achieve lasting recovery.

Mellissa Sloan brings 15 years of experience to her role as Clinical Director. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University and is a Licensed Mental Health Professional equipped with extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). These therapeutic approaches have equipped her with the necessary tools to effectively address trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.

Throughout her career, she has traversed various settings, including community mental health in GA and providing home-based services to families involved with the Department of Children and Families. Mellissa’s expertise extends to working with individuals of all ages, including children, families, couples, young adults, and seniors. These diverse experiences have nurtured Mellissa’s holistic perspective and deep empathy for individuals and families grappling with mental health and substance abuse challenges.

In her role as a Clinical Director, Mellissa conducts regular supervision sessions to review patient cases and treatment plans, offering feedback and ensuring the delivery of effective interventions while fostering a collaborative work environment. Mellissa’s actively engages in audits, reviews, and implements improvement initiatives to enhance treatment services. She ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and creates a safe environment for patients. In times of crisis, Mellissa provides support to prioritize patient well-being. Collaboration and coordination lie at the heart of Mellissa’s work. She collaborates closely with other departments and professionals within the treatment center to ensure seamless coordination of care.

With Mellissa’s extensive experience, compassionate approach, and dedication to excellence, she plays a crucial role at Beach House Center for Recovery. Mellissa is deeply aligned with the Beach House philosophy of providing compassionate and caring treatment to individuals struggling with addiction. Her dedication to helping people heal and recover is evident in her everyday work and the positive impact she has on our patients.

Andromada Brooks, LMHC, MS, CAP, is an experienced and compassionate leader who serves as the PHP Clinical Director at Beach House Center for Recovery. With her licensure as a Mental Health Counselor and certification as a Certified Addiction Professional in the State of Florida, Andromada has dedicated over 8 years to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.

Throughout her career, Andromada has had the privilege of working in diverse settings, providing her with a profound understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by our patients. She has worked with individuals, couples, and families from various cultural backgrounds, addressing a wide range of concerns including life changes, self-discovery, self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, domestic violence, depression, relationship issues, grief, and loss.

Guided by her passion for her work, Andromada sees herself and her team of Clinicians as trusted guides on the patient journey. They are deeply committed to helping the patients at Beach House Center for Recovery address, explore, and create positive changes in their lives. With a compassionate and supportive approach, her team encourages patients to challenge their thinking patterns and behaviors that no longer serve them, fostering healing and personal growth.

As a beacon of light on the path to healing, Andromada empowers our patients to break free from fear, confront their truths, and illuminate their path towards recovery. Her dedication to helping others extends beyond her role at Beach House, as she has previously worked with the Palm Beach County Police Department on the Domestic Violence Unit and collaborated with organizations such as AVDA and Homesafe.

Andromada’s expertise and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable asset to Beach House Center for Recovery. Her compassionate guidance, extensive experience, and leadership skills ensure that individuals who seek treatment at Beach House receive the highest level of care as they confidently embark on a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery.

Alessia Perez, LCSW, serves as the Mental Health Clinical Supervisor at Beach House Center for Recovery. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, Alessia is a Certified Sports Social Worker through the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports and has specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.

Alessia began her journey with Beach House in 2018 as a Primary Therapist and quickly advanced through various roles, including Lead Therapist for the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). In her current role, she oversees the mental health program, supporting patients across all levels of care. She works closely with the clinical director and other leadership to ensure high-quality therapeutic services, patient care coordination, and program development.

Her clinical interests include existential therapy, addiction, sports psychology, and primary mental health care. She is passionate about helping patients develop the tools to empower their healing, practicing a tough-love approach that emphasizes the connection between mental and physical health. Outside of work, Alessia enjoys staying active through martial arts, golf, and working out, as well as exploring her love for cooking.

As a clinical leader, Alessia strives to foster a culture where therapists feel supported and encouraged to leverage their specialties, ensuring that patients build the trust and rapport needed for transformative therapy. One of her proudest moments is when former patients reach out to share their successes, a testament to her dedication to their long-term wellness.

Yuliya Plotkin, ARNP, DNP brings an impactful perspective to her role of Nurse Practitioner with a wealth of experience and a passion for helping others. Yuliya earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Loyola University Chicago. Throughout her 9 years as a RN, Yuliya gained invaluable experience in palliative care, inpatient telemetry, primary care medicine, hospice, and medical/surgical units. This diverse background equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of patient care and a holistic approach to treatment.

She then pursued her Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees at RUSH University Medical Center. After completing her DNP, Yuliya found herself struggling with deep depression and insomnia. In her pursuit of self-treatment, she turned to alcohol. Recognizing the darkness she was in, Yuliya sought help from her family and embarked on a transformative year in Israel, where she found sobriety. This personal experience ignited a profound desire to share the gift of recovery with others still trapped in the shadows.

Driven by her newfound joy, happiness, and freedom, Yuliya decided to combine her professional passion with her personal journey. While studying for her Nurse Practitioner boards, she worked as an RN in a treatment facility, an experience that solidified her commitment to the field. As soon as she obtained her ARNP license, Yuliya eagerly joined the team at Beach House Center for Recovery.

Yuliya finds immense fulfillment in witnessing the transformative power of recovery in her patients: seeing the light return to their eyes, the color to their cheeks, and the smiles on their faces. Her personal mantra reflects her commitment to personal growth and accountability: she understands that she can only control herself and her reactions to people and situations. Each day, Yuliya wakes up with a conscious decision to be sober and to show up for the world with positivity and determination. Yuliya’s journey fuels her compassionate and dedicated approach to patient care. With her expertise, empathy, and firsthand experience, she makes a profound impact on the lives of those seeking recovery at Beach House Center for Recovery.

Lance Chaykin, PA-C, is a highly skilled medical provider with a deep commitment to providing exceptional care to the patients at Beach House Center for Recovery. Lance completed his education at Nova Southeastern’s Physician Assistant program in 2000 and has since accumulated 23 years of diverse medical experience across various disciplines, including internal medicine, endocrinology, and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

In 2010, Lance discovered his true calling in treating patients who are seeking recovery and decided to specialize in detoxification and addiction medicine. For the past 13 years, he has focused his expertise on residential treatment programs that specialize in substance use disorders. Lance’s extensive medical knowledge, combined with his compassionate and empathetic nature, makes him an invaluable asset to Beach House. His commitment to delivering comprehensive medical care extends beyond addressing immediate health concerns. Lance is dedicated to serving as a strong support system for individuals on their journey to recovery from an unsafe lifestyle.

With Lance’s exceptional expertise and unwavering dedication, Beach House Center for Recovery is able to provide comprehensive and compassionate medical treatment to individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders. Lance’s passion for helping others rediscover a fulfilling and healthy life plays a pivotal role in guiding patients towards long-term sobriety and well-being. His commitment to providing exceptional care and support makes him an invaluable member of the Beach House team.

Bobbie Rogers is a dedicated nurse with nearly 35 years of experience. Her journey as a nurse has been one of profound purpose and unwavering commitment to helping individuals find healing and hope. Since joining Beach House Center for Recovery as the Director of Nursing, Bobbie has been impressed with the team here since day one. She’s proud to be among so many caring, professional, and skilled medical professionals.

With 7 years as a hospice nurse and 8 years as an adolescent psych nurse, Bobbie has chosen to dedicate the past decade of her career to the pursuit of addiction medicine. This decision was fueled by a fierce passion. At Beach House Center for Recovery, Bobbie’s role as the Director of Nursing ensures that every patient receives the highest standard of care. Her wealth of experience in hospice care has gifted her with the ability to understand the most challenging moments of life. Similarly, her time with young individuals grappling with mental health issues has given her a profound respect for the unique needs of those seeking healing.

Her dedication to those struggling with addiction is fueled by an indomitable spirit and an unyielding belief in the transformative power of recovery. Her team thrives on excellent communication between departments to ensure the best possible individualized treatment for our patients. Every day, she fosters a healing environment of support for the nursing team, empowering them to make a difference in the lives of the patients they serve.

Cristina Walker serves as the Assistant Director of Nursing and Yoga Instructor with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Personal experiences have shaped Cristina’s dedication to this field, as she’s witnessed her own family members struggle with substance use. This connection has given her a deep understanding for the challenges that individuals face on their path to recovery. Passionate about witnessing the incredible transformations that occur within a short span of time, Cristina finds her job here at Beach House Center for Recovery immensely rewarding.

She firmly believes in the remarkable potential of the human body to heal. Her commitment to promoting a balanced mind, body, and spirit has become a cornerstone of her approach to health improvement. Cristina’s journey at Beach House has allowed her to combine her passions for mental health and yoga wellness. In 2015, she completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali, Indonesia, solidifying her expertise in yoga and mindfulness practices. For the past four years, she has been teaching yoga and providing Sound Therapy to patients at Beach House, sharing the benefits of these practices with both patients and staff alike.

The impact of yoga on Cristina’s own life has been profound, and she feels privileged to share these benefits with individuals during the challenging times they face in their recovery. Her goal is not only to provide relief and relaxation during their stay at Beach House but also to cultivate a habit that patients can incorporate into their daily routines upon leaving the center. Two mottos that encapsulate Cristina’s philosophy are “presence is the best present” and “movement is medicine.” These principles guide her interactions with patients, encouraging them to be fully present in their recovery journey and highlighting the importance of physical activity and self-care.

Jessica Stroud serves as the Director of Alumni Wellness at Beach House Center for Recovery, where her primary focus is to guide patients transitioning out of treatment toward a deeper sense of self-love, emotional growth, and long-term stability. Having first come to Beach House as a patient herself, Jessica knows firsthand the compassion and support that the center provides. This personal connection fuels her dedication to ensuring that every client has the same transformative experience she did. By embodying the philosophy of connection as the cornerstone of recovery, Jessica and her team contribute to the long-term well-being of each individual seeking healing at Beach House.

Jessica’s career journey began in corporate America, but her true calling emerged when she sought help for her own substance abuse. Her time as a Behavioral Health Technician and Patient Care Coordinator at Beach House allowed her to gain firsthand experience in crisis management, where she witnessed patients transform from their lowest points to moments of recovery. This inspired her to dedicate her career to the mental healthcare field, eventually rising to the role of Manager of Behavioral Health Services. In this role, she imparted the importance of patience and compassion in helping clients during their darkest moments.

Though her education in the field is rooted in lived experience, Jessica has continuously honed her skills through her participation in multiple treatment programs and her extensive work within the recovery community. Her philosophy towards long-term recovery emphasizes faith, community involvement, and service. She believes that actively engaging in a supportive network of like-minded individuals is essential for sustained recovery. Jessica is also deeply involved in her local community through outreach programs at River Church West Palm Beach, where she and her team share recovery testimonies and provide essential supplies to those in need.

Jessica’s impact extends beyond the walls of Beach House, as she remains a reliable resource for alumni and staff alike, continually striving to improve relationships and serve as a sober support both during and after treatment. With a rich background that spans personal and professional experiences in substance abuse recovery, Jessica leads a team committed to fostering meaningful connections that support lasting sobriety and emotional well-being.

Christopher Rescigno, the Executive Chef and Director of Housekeeping at Beach House Center for Recovery, brings a wealth of experience and passion to his multifaceted role. Originally from Philadelphia, PA, Christopher’s journey in the culinary world began after his college baseball career at Montgomery College. Upon relocating to Florida, he pursued his culinary education at the Florida Culinary Institute, specializing in food and beverage management.

With a background in culinary management, Christopher spent eight years as the Food and Beverage Manager at a prestigious marina and yacht club, where he honed his skills in providing exceptional service. Additionally, he gained valuable experience as a personal chef and mate on a private motor yacht for four years, further expanding his culinary repertoire.

Christopher’s path took an inspiring turn when he entered the addiction field, serving as an Executive Chef and Culinary Director for eight years. During this time, he skillfully combined his culinary expertise with his genuine passion for assisting individuals on their journey to recovery. His culinary creations played a vital role in enhancing the recovery experience for countless individuals.

In his dual role as the Director of Housekeeping, Christopher undertakes various responsibilities to ensure the smooth operation of the facility. Christopher’s attention to detail and organizational skills contribute to the efficient functioning of the facility, supporting the delivery of exceptional care to those seeking recovery.

He considers himself fortunate to wake up each day and pursue a career that he genuinely loves. Christopher’s unwavering commitment to his craft and genuine care for others make him an indispensable asset to Beach House Center for Recovery, where he continues to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.